Abdoulie Sanyang, the Inspector General of the Gambia Police Force, has stated that in the nascent democracy of the country, there are individuals who believe they can say and do whatever they please and still escape repercussions. These statements were delivered during a consultative session between the Gambia Police Force (GPF) and its stakeholders regarding the National Policing Strategic Plan 2024-2028.
Sanyang underscored the difficulty of enforcing the law in a society that might not wholeheartedly accept its authority. In order to bridge this divide, the GPF is dedicated to establishing public confidence and support so that it may carry out its responsibilities effectively. Sanyang acknowledged the notable departure from previous practices, acknowledging the intricate nature of law enforcement in the ever-changing context of The Gambia.
“We are unable to Policing a community that opposes our efforts to do so. In order for society to be policed, we must have their support. For this reason, we are making every effort to win over the minds and souls of the populace. Because precisely that was absent. We have thus now past that stage. It is necessary to modify the aggressive game. Because policing is currently extremely difficult and complex, especially in the Gambia.
Within the framework of the recently established democratic system, he noted that certain individuals erroneously believe that their ignorance of the law permits them to speak and act without consequence. However, he emphasized that disregard for the law does not absolve one of its repercussions.
“You are cognizant of the current state of affairs, the recently established democracy. There are individuals who believe they can say and do anything without consequence. Unfortunately, quite a few individuals are oblivious of the law. However, legal ignorance is not a valid excuse. It is not the responsibility of law enforcement to dictate moral distinctions. However, our true position is that the police should receive assistance from civil society in order to policing society. “Because security is of the utmost importance,” IGP Sanyang explained.
During a consultative meeting of the GPF with its stakeholders to discuss the preliminary National Policing Strategic Plan 2024-2028, Sanyang made these remarks. The meeting’s overarching motif was “collaborating with partners to deliver police services more efficiently.”
This strategic plan demonstrates the Gambian Police Force’s dedication to carrying out its constitutionally mandated function by implementing globally acknowledged democratic policing principles and optimal approaches in order to deliver pertinent services to the populace of Gambia. The strategy incorporates the GPF’s collective vision, mission declarations, and strategic goals pertaining to law enforcement.
Sanyang emphasized that progress is contingent upon a secure and healthy nation, underscoring the fundamental importance of health and security as components of national development. It is critical for the well-being of society as a whole that access to education, commerce, and healthcare is contingent upon security, he emphasized. Sanyang further emphasized to the audience that police officers, including himself in his capacity as Inspector General, are ordinary citizens who ought to be regarded as integral members of the community.
He strongly advocated for the cooperation of all relevant parties, both domestic and foreign, in order to guarantee the security and protection of The Gambia.
“However, neglecting security will result in a destitute or feeble nation; progress will be elusive.” Prior to discussing Agriculture, Education, and everything else, it is necessary to have the necessary knowledge. Due to the fact that access to education, commerce, and healthcare is contingent upon security measures, the market is similarly immaculate. The crux of the matter is security. People should recognize that policing is a challenging profession and that police officers are civilians as well.
“While occupying the position of Inspector General of Police, my family consists entirely of civilians. Therefore, consider us to be your mothers, fathers, sisters, and the like. When viewed, however, as police officers, the distinction becomes apparent. In conclusion, I believe this to be an excellent forum. “Because we have local partners, international partners, and various other stakeholders, we request your assistance in reestablishing security in the Gambia through law enforcement,” he continued.
The objective of the strategic plan is to establish a proficient and competent police force by means of methodical hiring of qualified personnel and consistent professional development and training. Engaging in this methodology will foster an elevated standard of service quality, integrity, discipline, and impartiality in all public interactions.
Additionally, the strategy aims to ensure transparency and effective allocation of resources, establish a robust and dependable database, and bolster the police department’s investigative and prosecutorial capacities. In addition, it seeks to furnish the police with the funding, facilities, infrastructure, and logistics required to improve their operations.